The Obelisk Dubai is a unique high-rise 5-star hotel building with no open roof. The challenge was that without an open roof, there was no space for the façade access equipment to be installed. Dunbar and Boardman developed a simple, ingenious design with the BMU located inside the pyramid-shaped roof so it can be brought out through openings on the four sides when required. When the BMU is not in use it will remain inside completely hidden from view and protected by closed doors on the façade. This means that the building’s unique shape is retained. Additional internal roof slabs were also designed to accommodate a BMU inside the pyramid.

Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk is a luxury 5-star hotel in Wafi City in the centre of Dubai and is attached to the Wafi Mall. Its 230-metre obelisk was inspired by the Luxor Obelisk, the 3,000-year-old monument in Paris that was originally situated outside the Luxor Temple in Egypt. The hotel’s 498 rooms and suites are located on the 19th floor and above with some enjoying views of old Dubai,
the Creek, the Harbor, and the iconic Dubai skyline. It also offers 10 events venues, a ballroom and a separate banquet venue, plus five distinctively designed restaurants and bars.